Top Places to Visit in Hyderabad

Hyderabad is a city that exudes old-world charm and it’s no surprise then that it’s called the ‘city of Nizams’. Steeped in history, old bazars and mosques coexist with new malls and office buildings in perfect harmony. It’s these contrasts and glimpses of a grand past with promises of a successful future that make Hyderabad a city worth visiting. Here are places to visit in Hyderabad.

Charminar

Hyderabad’s most iconic landmark, Charminar is a notable monument and mosque that reflects the Indo-Islamic architecture of its times. Constructed of granite and limestone, at each of the four cardinal corners of the monument are 56-metere high ornate minarets with double balconies. Stairs lead to the second level, which is also where the open-air mosque is. The archways of the Charminar open out on to the streets for a panoramic view.

Hussain Sagar Lake

An oasis in the heart of Hyderabad, the Hussain Sagar Lake is named after Hussain Shah Wali. The main attraction at this manmade lake is an 18-metre high, 450-tonne statue of Buddha in the centre. Carved out of white granite that took two years to complete, it virtually glows especially on a full moon night. Hussain Sagar Lake is also popular for boating and along its periphery are other famous city attractions including Lumbini Park and Birla Mandir

Golconda Fort

One of India’s most imposing forts, the Golconda Fort comprises four district forts encircled by a 10-kilometre long wall. With four drawbridges, over 80 bastions, several temples, mosques, halls and royal residences, it’s nothing short of majestic. While most of it stands in ruins, hints of its past grandiose can be seen within its enclosures boasting of Mughal style architecture.

Chowmahalla Palace

A replica of the Shah’s Palace in Iran, the Chowmahalla Palace spans 12 acres comprising two courtyards, grand halls and sprawling gardens with waterbodies and fountains. Once part of the Nizam of Hyderabad’s state, the enclosures and grounds have been meticulously restored over the years. The pièce de résistance at Chowmahalla Palace are 19 antique Belgian glass chandeliers and Khilwat Clock that’s been functioning for over 250 years.

Ramoji Film City

Movie buffs will thoroughly enjoy a day spent at Ramoji Film City. Set up by the set up by Ramoji Group in 1996, it’s the world’s largest film studio complex. Spread across a staggering 2000 acres, Ramoji Film City is where many popular regional language, Hindi and even international movies have been shot. Within the premises, there are options for dining, shopping and above all, entertainment, in the form of movie studio tours, live shows and an adventure park, to name a few.